What to Wear for Your Penn State Graduation Photos

Graduation at Penn State is more than a ceremony; it’s the celebration of years of hard work and unforgettable memories. This is a time worth documenting! As a Penn State graduation photographer based in State College, one of the biggest factors in planning your perfect session is what you choose to wear.

The good news? Styling a PSU grad session is pretty simple. Your cap & gown is a natural, built-in accessory that photographs beautifully. The best base layers are timeless, feel like you, and pair effortlessly with your cap and gown. Below, I’m sharing my tried-and-true outfit guidance to help you feel confident, comfortable, and completely yourself during your Penn State grad session.

Start with a Timeless Base Outfit

If you’re unsure where to begin, this is it:

A white dress under your graduation gown is a classic favorite, and for good reason.

White photographs beautifully, reflects light onto your face, and creates a clean, professional, and high-end look that never goes out of style. It also pairs perfectly with Penn State’s blue gown, letting your photos feel polished and celebratory without being overdone.

If dresses aren’t your style, neutral jumpsuits or tailored light-colored outfits can work just as well. The key is choosing something that feels comfortable and flattering so you can move easily throughout your session.

Why this works:

• Timeless and elegant
• Looks incredible with cap & gown photos
• Keeps the focus on you and your achievement

Choose a Second Outfit That Feels Like You

After your cap & gown photos, many grads love switching into something more relaxed and personal. This is where your personality can really shine.

Some popular second-outfit options include:

• A Penn State or Alumni tee styled with jeans
• Athletic or club apparel that represents your involvement
• A casual outfit that feels true to your everyday style

These photos tell a different part of your story, who you were during your Penn State years, not just the moment you crossed the stage. As a Penn State graduation photographer, I always encourage grads to bring something meaningful that reflects their time on campus.

Color Guidance for Graduation Photos

When it comes to colors, less is more.

Best colors to wear:

• White, cream, soft neutrals
• Light blue, navy, or muted tones
• Soft pastels

What to avoid:

• Neon or overly bright colors
• Busy patterns or large logos (outside of Penn State apparel)
• Distracting graphics that pull attention away from your face

These guidelines ensure your images feel cohesive, elevated, and timeless.

Thoughtful Tips to Remember

Cap tips:

• Keep decorations minimal for a polished look
• Tassel traditionally starts on the right and moves to the left

Gown tips:

• Steam or hang your gown ahead of time

Comfortability:

• Make sure you try on your outfits before your session
• Avoid clothing that needs constant adjusting
• Plan to wear undergarments that will be hidden under your clothing. Straps and see-through layers cannot always be edited out.
• Bring an extra pair of comfy shoes for traveling around campus
• Prioritize clothing you feel confident in - confidence photographs beautifully

These small details make a big difference in your final gallery and help your session feel effortless and refined!

Your graduation photos should feel like you at your best: proud, accomplished, and excited for what’s next. If you’re looking for a State College photographer who specializes in Penn State graduation photography, I’d love to help you document this milestone in a way that feels meaningful and timeless.

Ready to book your Penn State graduation session? Let’s create images you’ll love and be proud to share.